Are you confused about the difference between avoirdupois and troy? You’re not alone. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different systems of measurement for weight. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between avoirdupois and troy and help you understand which one is the proper word to use in different contexts.
Avoirdupois and troy are both systems of measurement for weight, but they are used in different contexts. Avoirdupois is the more common system and is used for measuring everyday items like food and household items. Troy, on the other hand, is used for measuring precious metals like gold and silver.
The term avoirdupois comes from the Old French word “aveir de peis,” which means “goods of weight.” Avoirdupois is a system of weight measurement that is based on pounds and ounces. One pound is equal to 16 ounces, and one ounce is equal to 437.5 grains. Avoirdupois is the system of measurement used in the United States for everyday items like food, clothing, and household goods.
Troy, on the other hand, is a system of weight measurement that is based on troy ounces. One troy ounce is equal to 480 grains, and 12 troy ounces make up one troy pound. Troy weight is used primarily for measuring precious metals like gold and silver, as well as gemstones. The term “troy” comes from the French town of Troyes, where the system was first used in the Middle Ages.
Now that you understand the basic differences between avoirdupois and troy, let’s take a closer look at each system and how it is used.
Define Avoirdupois
Avoirdupois is a system of weights used to measure goods in the United States and other countries. This system is also known as the common weight system. It is based on a pound, which is divided into 16 ounces. The avoirdupois system is used to weigh most goods that are sold by weight, such as food, fabric, and other household items.
The avoirdupois system has its roots in medieval England, where it was used to weigh wool and other goods. Over time, it became the standard system of weights for trade and commerce in England and later in the United States. Today, the avoirdupois system is used in most English-speaking countries and is the standard system of weights for most everyday items.
Define Troy
Troy weight is a system of weights used to measure precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. This system is based on a pound, which is divided into 12 ounces. Each troy ounce is further divided into 20 pennyweights, and each pennyweight is divided into 24 grains.
The troy system is believed to have originated in the city of Troyes, France, during the Middle Ages. It was used to weigh precious metals that were used in the production of coins and jewelry. Today, the troy system is used primarily in the jewelry industry and by precious metal traders. It is also used by some countries as a standard system of weights for precious metals.
| System | Pound | Ounce | Grain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avoirdupois | 16 ounces | 437.5 grains | — |
| Troy | 12 ounces | 480 grains | 24 grains |
As shown in the table above, the avoirdupois and troy systems have different weights for pounds, ounces, and grains. It is important to use the correct system of weights when measuring goods to ensure accuracy and consistency.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to measuring weight, there are two common systems used: avoirdupois and troy. While they are both used to measure weight, they differ in the units of measurement and the items they are typically used to weigh. Here’s how to properly use the words in a sentence.
How To Use Avoirdupois In A Sentence
Avoirdupois is the most commonly used system of measurement for weight in the United States. It is used to measure items such as produce, meat, and other goods. Here are some examples of how to use avoirdupois in a sentence:
- The avoirdupois pound is equal to 16 ounces.
- The scale is calibrated in avoirdupois units.
- The avoirdupois weight of the shipment was 500 pounds.
When using avoirdupois in a sentence, it’s important to remember that it is typically used for measuring larger items and is not commonly used for measuring precious metals or gemstones.
How To Use Troy In A Sentence
Troy is a system of measurement commonly used for weighing precious metals and gemstones. Here are some examples of how to use troy in a sentence:
- The troy ounce is commonly used to measure the weight of gold and silver.
- The jeweler weighed the diamond in troy ounces.
- The troy weight of the necklace was 2.5 ounces.
When using troy in a sentence, it’s important to remember that it is typically used for measuring smaller items such as precious metals and gemstones, and is not commonly used for measuring larger items such as produce or meat.
More Examples Of Avoirdupois & Troy Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the differences between avoirdupois and troy weight systems, it is helpful to see them used in various contexts. Here are some examples of how avoirdupois and troy are used in sentences:
Examples Of Using Avoirdupois In A Sentence
- The recipe calls for 2 pounds of flour, which is equivalent to 32 ounces avoirdupois.
- The box of nails weighs 50 pounds avoirdupois.
- The car’s weight is measured in tons avoirdupois.
- The grocery store sells fruits and vegetables by the pound avoirdupois.
- The weight of the dumbbell was 20 pounds avoirdupois.
- The farmer’s market sells meat by the pound avoirdupois.
- The gold bar weighs 400 ounces avoirdupois.
- The baby’s weight was measured in ounces avoirdupois.
- The cannonball weighed 32 pounds avoirdupois.
- The scale is calibrated in avoirdupois units.
Examples Of Using Troy In A Sentence
- The gold necklace weighs 1 troy ounce.
- The jeweler sells diamonds by the carat, which is equivalent to 0.2 grams troy.
- The silver coin weighs 1 troy ounce.
- The weight of the platinum bar is 10 troy ounces.
- The recipe calls for 2 troy ounces of saffron.
- The antique dealer sells silverware by the troy ounce.
- The weight of the gold bullion is 100 troy ounces.
- The jeweler measures the weight of gemstones in troy carats.
- The weight of the palladium bar is 1 troy pound.
- The scale is calibrated in troy units.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to weighing precious metals, it is crucial to understand the differences between avoirdupois and troy weight systems. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of using these two systems interchangeably, which can lead to inaccurate measurements and financial losses. In this section, we will highlight some common mistakes people make when using avoirdupois and troy weight systems and offer tips on how to avoid them.
Using Avoirdupois Instead Of Troy
One of the most common mistakes people make is using avoirdupois weight instead of troy weight when weighing precious metals. Avoirdupois weight is a system commonly used for measuring everyday items such as food and household items. It is based on 16 ounces per pound, while troy weight is based on 12 ounces per pound.
When it comes to precious metals, using avoirdupois weight can lead to inaccurate measurements and financial losses. For example, if you are selling gold or silver by the troy ounce but mistakenly use avoirdupois weight, you will end up with less money than you deserve. Therefore, it is essential to use the correct weight system when weighing precious metals.
Confusing Ounces With Troy Ounces
Another common mistake people make is confusing ounces with troy ounces. A regular ounce is equivalent to 28.35 grams, while a troy ounce is equivalent to 31.1 grams. Therefore, if you are weighing precious metals using regular ounces instead of troy ounces, you will end up with inaccurate measurements.
To avoid this mistake, always make sure to use troy ounces when weighing precious metals. You can also double-check your measurements by using a conversion chart or calculator to ensure that you are using the correct weight system.
Not Accounting For The Weight Of The Container
One final mistake people make when weighing precious metals is not accounting for the weight of the container. When you weigh precious metals, you need to subtract the weight of the container from the total weight to get an accurate measurement. Failure to do so can lead to inaccurate measurements and financial losses.
To avoid this mistake, always make sure to weigh the container separately and subtract its weight from the total weight of the precious metal. You can also use a tare function on your scale to automatically deduct the weight of the container.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are accurately weighing your precious metals and getting the most value for your money. Always remember to use the correct weight system, account for the weight of the container, and double-check your measurements to avoid any inaccuracies or financial losses.
Context Matters
When it comes to measuring weight, there are different systems of measurement that can be used. Two of the most common systems are avoirdupois and troy. However, the choice between these two systems can depend on the context in which they are used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
One context in which the choice between avoirdupois and troy can vary is in the measurement of precious metals. Avoirdupois is typically used for weighing larger quantities of precious metals, such as silver bars or gold coins. On the other hand, troy is often used for weighing smaller quantities of precious metals, such as gold jewelry or silverware.
Another context in which the choice between these two systems can differ is in the measurement of food. Avoirdupois is commonly used in the United States for measuring food items, such as fruits and vegetables, meat, and dairy products. However, troy is used in the measurement of spices and herbs, which are typically measured in small quantities.
When it comes to pharmaceuticals, the choice between avoirdupois and troy can also vary. Avoirdupois is used for measuring larger quantities of medications, such as pills or tablets. However, troy is often used for measuring smaller quantities of medications, such as powders or liquids.
Overall, the choice between avoirdupois and troy can depend on the context in which they are used. It is important to understand the differences between these two systems of measurement, as well as the appropriate context for their use, in order to ensure accurate and precise measurements.
Exceptions To The Rules
Identifying Exceptions
While the rules for using avoirdupois and troy are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules might not apply. It is important to be aware of these exceptions to ensure accurate measurements in specific situations.
Exceptions Explained
One exception to the rules for using avoirdupois and troy is in the measurement of precious stones and gems. While troy ounces are typically used to measure precious metals, such as gold and silver, the measurement of precious stones and gems is often done in carats. One carat is equal to 0.007 ounces or 0.2 grams, and this measurement is used universally in the gemstone industry.
Another exception is in the measurement of medicine and drugs. While the avoirdupois system is typically used for weighing medications, some drugs are measured in metric units, such as milligrams or micrograms. This is especially true for medications with low doses or those that are highly potent.
Additionally, some industries may have their own unique measurement systems that do not follow the standard avoirdupois or troy systems. For example, the grain industry uses a measurement system based on the weight of a grain of wheat, while the textile industry may use a variety of different measurement systems depending on the type of fabric being measured.
Examples
| Exception | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Precious Stones and Gems | Troy ounces are not typically used to measure precious stones and gems, which are instead measured in carats. | A diamond weighing 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams or 0.007 ounces. |
| Medicine and Drugs | Some drugs are measured in metric units, such as milligrams or micrograms, rather than using the avoirdupois system. | A medication with a low dose may be measured in milligrams rather than ounces. |
| Unique Industry Systems | Some industries may have their own unique measurement systems that do not follow the standard avoirdupois or troy systems. | The grain industry uses a measurement system based on the weight of a grain of wheat. |
Practice Exercises
Now that we have discussed the differences between avoirdupois and troy, it is time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of these two systems of measurement.
Exercise 1:
Convert the following weights from avoirdupois to troy:
| Object | Avoirdupois Weight | Troy Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Gold bar | 10 ounces | |
| Silver coin | 1 pound | |
| Diamond ring | 0.5 carats |
Answer key:
| Object | Avoirdupois Weight | Troy Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Gold bar | 10 ounces | 9.17 troy ounces |
| Silver coin | 1 pound | 14.58 troy ounces |
| Diamond ring | 0.5 carats | 0.1 troy carats |
Exercise 2:
Fill in the blanks with either avoirdupois or troy:
- Gold and silver are measured in the _______ system.
- The _______ system is used to weigh food and other everyday items.
- One _______ ounce is equal to 28.35 grams.
- The _______ system is used to weigh precious metals and gemstones.
Answer key:
- Gold and silver are measured in the troy system.
- The avoirdupois system is used to weigh food and other everyday items.
- One avoirdupois ounce is equal to 28.35 grams.
- The troy system is used to weigh precious metals and gemstones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the difference between avoirdupois and troy weight is crucial for anyone dealing with precious metals or commodities. Here are some key takeaways from this article:
Avoirdupois Weight:
- Used for most everyday items, such as food and non-precious metals
- Based on 16 ounces per pound
- The pound is further divided into 16 ounces, and each ounce is divided into 16 drams
Troy Weight:
- Used for precious metals, such as gold and silver
- Based on 12 ounces per pound
- The pound is further divided into 12 ounces, and each ounce is divided into 20 pennyweights (dwt)
It is important to note that while avoirdupois and troy weight have different measurement systems, they can both be converted into grams or kilograms for ease of use.
As you continue to learn about grammar and language use, it is important to also continue expanding your knowledge on other subjects, such as measurement systems. This will not only enhance your writing, but also your overall understanding of the world around you.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.